Junior Sailing Program Overview

Please click on the links below for more detailed information.

Class Descriptions

Morning Opti Programs: This program is designed to teach children aged 8-11 how to sail Optis, a small, single-handed dinghy. Participants in this program meet Monday to Friday from 9:00am - 12:00pm. The program has three groups: Snappers, Barracudas and Dorados. Participants must provide their own Opti. Must turn 8yrs old within the calendar year.

Afternoon Opti Programs: The afternoon Opti program provides a great opportunity for older Opti sailors. There are three groups: Beginner Afternoon Opti, Opti Development Team, and Opti Race Team. Afternoon Opti sailors must turn at least 9 years old by December 31 of the calendar year. To participate in our Development on Race teams sailors must have completed Dorados or have permission from the Sailing Director.

Adventure Sailing: These programs will have an emphasis on the fun and adventurous side of sailing and serve as a fantastic introduction to double-handed sailing. These programs are designed for sailors who want to socialize and have a great time on the water while also honing their sailing skills. Our Adventure class will participate in Un-Regattas where the focus is not all about winning races, but instead the focus is on having the most fun possible while encouraging sportsmanship. Un-Regattas will feature activities such as limbo competitions, freestyle course racing, slalom, and much more! Participants will sail on O'Pen Skiffs and RS Fevas, and occasionally Hobie Waves and Ideal 18s! All boats used will be provided by RYC. This is an ideal class for sailors who wish to expand their sailing experience and have a fun day on the water with friends. Sailors will have the option to participate in JSA regattas in the Bic and Fevas, including local Un-Regattas.

Feva: Our Feva class is focused on double-handed boat-handling skills and having fun on the water. In addition to games and fun activities on the waters, practices will cover racing skills and strategy including asymmetrical spinnaker technique, racing tactics, boat speed, and the "Racing Rules of Sailing". Regatta travel encouraged. You must have your own boat and sailing partner for this program. Ages 12-17yrs or Sailing Director approval. Prerequisite: An afternoon sailing class or Sailing Director recommendation. This program runs Monday to Friday, 1:00 - 5:00pm. Participants in this program must provide their own Feva. Each participant requires a partner, but please do not let that discourage you from registering as we will work with you and other interested 420 sailors to find a partner.

C420 Racing: Our C420 class is an advanced racing class focused on improving racing and double handed boat-handling skills. Practices will include spinnaker and trapeze techniques, tactics, starting strategies, and boat speed. Regatta travel encouraged. You must have your own boat and sailing partner for this program. Ages 14-17yrs or Sailing Director approval. Prerequisite: Feva, Laser, or Sailing Director recommendation. This program runs Monday to Friday, 1:00pm - 5:00pm. Participants in this program must provide their own C420. Each participant requires a partner, but please do not let that discourage you from registering as we will work with you and other interested C420 sailors to find a partner.

Laser Racing:Our Laser class is designed for sailors who have completed their Opti career and who wish to continue sailing in a single-handed class. Practices will include racing tactics, starting strategies, and boat speed. Regatta travel encouraged. Participants in this program must provide their own Laser. Ages 14-17yrs or Sailing Director approval. Prerequisite: An afternoon sailing class or Sailing Director recommendation. This program runs Monday to Friday, 1:00 - 5:00pm. Participants in this program must provide their own Laser.

Junior Big Boat: This program is for the serious sailor who wishes to learn how to race big boats offshore. Participants must be aged 14-18 within the calendar year. The program will include both practical big boat sailing/racing and a navigation theory class.

Communication

Our primary means of communication during the summer will be through email and the Junior Program website. Please check your email regularly once the summer begins. Our Sailing Director and Junior Sailing Assistant are always available to discuss your child's sailing progress and any other concerns you may have.

We look forward to a safe and successful season!

Safety Equipment

The following safety equipment is mandatory for all sailors participating in the RYC Junior Sailing Program: a USCG-approved life vest with attached whistle, sun block, hat, water bottle, sunglasses and closed-toe shoes. All boats and sailing equipment must pass safety check-in before they can be used in the program. A full list is available in the Junior Sailing Handbook.

Notes on Weather

We hold Junior Sailing on all scheduled program days. On no wind or stormy days, Junior Sailors will participate in sailing-related arts and crafts or games, swimming, and playing on the lawn or beach. On very hot days please be sure to send enough water and a reusable water bottle to be refilled throughout the day. Please be sure to check the weather daily and send any clothing or gear items you child may need. We do go sailing in the rain.

Volunteers

The RYC Sailing Program relies on parent volunteers during the spring and summer to help make this program a success. There are many different ways to help: Parent of the Day, helping out at RYC hosted JSA regatta, photographing sailors for the end of program slide show, chairing or co-chairing an event, or serving on a committees. Please contact us to get involved.

JSA

The JSA of LIS is the governing body for Junior Sailing in our area. On top of managing the regatta schedule they also provide training for instructors as well as resources for parents and sailors. Please explore the JSA website as it is a wonderful resource.

Here are some links to get you started: